Friday, March 25, 2016

If you are not receiving Friday Notes by email and would like to or if you would like to be removed from the Friday Notes email list, please email fridaynotes@lelandandgray.orgPlease also add fridaynotes@lelandandgray.org to your contact list so the mailing doesn't end up in your spam folder. Thank you.

SCHOOL INFO:

Journey East:

If you would like to keep abreast of the Journey East program on their latest adventure, please bookmark this link ( http://lelandandgray.org/journeyeast/ ) and visit often.You may leave comments on the posts. We will be updating the Site regularly, with occasional lapses due to lack of connectivity or sleep.On the Site you can also see the Journey East Documentary of the program, created by Leland and Gray Alumn, Giannina Gaspero-Beckstrom (2015), Alana Redden (2014) and Fraser Query (2014).

Public Meeting:

Public Meeting: Act 46, Leland and Gray School District, and Our Five Union Towns Tuesday, March 29, 2016 at 7-9 pm in the L&G Library

Facilitator: Stephen Dale, Act 46 Consultant

This gathering brings together representatives of the six School Boards of Brookline, Jamaica, Newfane, Townshend, Windham and Leland and Gray and interested community members to discuss Act 46 pathways into future governance. This conversation and any decision to move forward has a direct bearing on options for our communities and Windham Central.

Presentation for Students:

“Natural Highs” Presentation for Students

On April 7th at 9:14am Matt Bellace, psychologist, motivational speaker and comedian, will be presenting to students and staff at Leland and Gray. Dr. Bellace has a PhD in clinical neuropsychology, which is the study of the brain and behavior. He has been traveling the country as a professional speaker and stand-up comedian for over 20 years. He authored the book, “A Better High,” co-authored the National Geographic Kids Series, “This or That,” and was a regular on truTV’s, “World’s Dumbest.” Matt uses his background in neuropsychology to tailor his programs to the developmental stages of his audiences. For his presentation at Leland and Gray, he will be discussing “natural highs” and delivering important messages about resilience, positive social support and making healthy choices. Parents/guardians who would like to hear Dr. Bellace should first contact L&G’s main office at 365-7355. Thank you.

Students in the Spotlight:

Trying it all: L&G snowboarders shine on stage and on the slopesWhen Owen McDonald competed in the state snowboard individual slopestyle event March 3, he had a couple other things on his mind: First, he had to be back to Leland and Gray (L&G) by 5 PM for company notes before a 7PM opening of the L&G Players' production of Macbeth. Then he had to face the fact that this was his first time working with the Players: He'd broken through his comfort zone to play the roles of Lennox, Old Man and Seyton in the well-known Shakespearean tragedy.Why now, in his senior year, did McDonald decide to give the Players a try? He was convinced, he said, by Emma Urbaska –relatively new to L&G's theatre program –and by Players' newcomer and fellow senior athlete, Jordan Gouger, to join the Macbeth cast. “They told me that I would regret not doing it, if I didn't give it a go. So, that is how I found myself walking into play rehearsal one day.”Of that day when he scored on his snowboard and then under the lights, McDonald says: “As an athlete, mental power is very important and my mental power was truly tested that day. Switching gears from snowboarding to performing in front of an audience in costume and make up was difficult, but I got through it. In the end, I can safely say, that was a successful day not just for me but for everyone around me.” According to McDonald's mother, Beth, the winning rider pressed her to hurry back to the Townshend high school from Okemo in Ludlow where the day-long competition was held. Players' Assistant Director Kayla Williams, L&G '14, adds that no one would have known the stress of that afternoon as McDonald slid in at 5:03 and sat to get the feedback he'd use in that night's opening. It wasn't until just before opening that director Annie Landenberger learned from L&G's Athletics and Activities Director Marty Testo of McDonald's win.But that's not all: Teammate and fellow senior Cody Cutler had also jumped at the chance to perform for the first time taking roles of Menteith and first murderer in Macbeth. He, too, sat calmly for notes, no doubt busting with pride: For not only had McDonald taken the individual gold; the whole L&G team took first in slopestyle statewide.L&G snowboarding coach, John Salzman, says: "This year was tough in terms of natural precipitation, but the team was strong with natural talent. We didn't have more than two practices on snow before our first competition, although that didn't stop us from taking first place. It was an honor to work with these gifted riders."Testo adds, “What I found most impressive about this team was their ability to overcome the mild winter and inaccessibility of practice facilities. They never used this as an excuse and just overcame every obstacle that came their way. A sign of a true champion!”McDonald's younger brother, Patrick, is his snowboarding teammate and was also a varsity soccer teammate in the fall. Patrick will leave March 21 for China, having been selected to participate in L&G's 2016 Journey East performing arts group."I couldn't be more proud of L&G," Beth McDonald adds. “From our first visit to see Coach Barton and his varsity boys' soccer team when my kids were still at Windham Elementary School, I was impressed with the closeness of the L&G students, parents and community members. It was then we started attending concerts and plays-- amazing entertainment right down the hill. We knew that our kids would thrive in this close-knit school and feel comfortable trying all L&G has to offer. We are extremely grateful for the diverse opportunities there.”

Student Art Month Art Show:

Leland & Gray did fantastic in this year's Student Art Month Art Show with the following awards:

Best in Show Drawing - Erelyn GriffinBest in Show Painting - Skyler NuppBest in Show Ceramics - Maggie AdamsBest in Show Book Arts - Maggie AdamsHonorable Mention Digital Arts - Dani DezendorfThe show opens March 4th and will be up until the end of the month. You can see the 2D work at the River Garden and the 3D work at Vermont Artisan Designs Gallery 2.

Also, Trevor Wood and Gary Gay made this video and have entered it in TeenDrive 365 Video Challenge.

Finalist's videos get professionally produced. The guys would go to NY to work with the professionals filming, cutting and editing the 1 minute Public Service Announcement!

Kids' Night at the Movies:

On Friday, March 25th from 6-9pm, grades k-6 are invited to watch movies at Leland & Gray. There will be three movies to choose from: Shrek, Inside Out or the Little Mermaid. There will be free popcorn. Bring your pillows and blankets. Parents can stay or drop off at the main entrance to L&G.

Suicide Prevention Presentation:

The Springfield School District, the Center for Health and Wellbeing and Community partners are supporting the following event at the Springfield High School on March 31, 2016: Suicide Prevention Awareness: Promoting Positive Mental Health and Wellness. Dinner and childcare are provided and great door prizes are offered (a new Bike, gift cards). Please RSVP to Nicole Buser (nbuser@ssdvt.org) for accurate dinner count and Childcare needs ASAP.

From the Music Department:

On April 8th and 9th the High School Chorus will be performing Carl Orff's "Carmina Burana" with other local choral groups and the Windham Orchestra.

Vermont All State Music Festival:

Congratulations to Susie Francy, Emma Urbaska and Gabrel Vanni-Phillips who auditioned for and were accepted into the Vermont All state Music Festival. The concert will be on May 7th in Swanton, VT.

Yearbooks:

Place your yearbook orders now through April 22nd!They are $40. Bring cash or checks to Nika in the Co-op room.Yearbook purchases made after this date must be done directly through the yearbook company at a higher cost. Get them now at the lower price!

Penny Wars:

The senior class needs your help and your change. They will be putting on Penny Wars March 1st-31st. The way it works is you donate pennies for a grade, 7-12, and each penny will earn them a point. Then you can give any of your silver change to a different class and their points will be deducted based off of the silver value. Drop off any and all change to help out. You can give change to a senior, or deliver it to Jaclyn as she will be keeping track of all points. Thank you for your support of the senior class.

Senior Class Slideshow:

The Senior Class Slideshow committee is in need of 7 photos from each graduating senior. They should be from the time they were a baby to now. Also if you have any group pictures from class trips or other major events. This slideshow will be played at Class Night. We would like the pictures to be sent to Ashley Hescock at 16ashleyh@lelandandgray.orgIf you do not have them digitally, you can send them in with your senior to get them scanned here at school.

Kids Night Out:

8th Grade Parents:

8th grade homework assignments build on what has happened that day in class. The lesson is taught and assignments are typically begun in class. They need to be completed before the next class. Without completed homework, students will not be as successful in the next day. This design is intended to help 8th graders become more independent learners, a skill needed for high school. Please check Power School daily to see what the day's homework assignment is, and ask to see your child's homework when it is completed.

Juniors & Seniors & Their Parents/Guardians:

Every week Sarah sends out an E-newsletter containing all things college and career. Many of you are on the list to receive it, but many are not! There is so much information pertaining to life after high school, this is the most effective way to communicate it to you. If you do NOT get this e-letter, please email Sarah and request to be added to the list.sgrasso@lelandandgray.org

Leland & Gray Literary Magazine:

If you like writing---whether it be poems, creative non-fiction, fiction and its many categories, or essays---and would like to share it, Lindsey Vachon and Chloe Fawcett with the guidance of Ms. Landenberger are now accepting submissions for Leland and Gray's Literary Magazine. If your talent is drawing, painting, or photography, we're welcomiong your work, too. Finally, if you're interested in layout, design, promotion, editing--we need staff in those areas in order to showcase all types of parchment art. You can find Ms. L in B4 during C block, Lindsey in the library most days during B and C block, and Chloe in passing. If email works better for you, feel free to submit work that way, and if you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask. Thanks! Emails: alandenberger@lelandandgray.org, 17chloef@lelandandgray.org, 16lindseyv@lelandandgray.org

Save the Date:

This years prom will take place on Saturday, May 21st.

AFTER SCHOOL INFO:

LEAF Program:

L.E.A.F. (L&G Environmental Action Force and Outdoor Club)LEAF is sponsoring a High Mowing Seeds and Equal Exchange Fundraiser. Our goal is to fund a grow lab for the middle school science classes. Some projects this year:

re-introducing composting at L&G for the school garden

co-ordinating school wide events in celebration of Earth Day

hikes

collaboration with the co-op program on the planning and planting of the school Rebel garden

participation in the Vermont Youth Environmental Summit this Fall

raising awareness around the issue of plastics in the ocean and its negative affects

Late Bus:

Leland and Gray's after-school late bus is running and will continue running until March 31st.

Please make alternative transportation arrangements for the dates the bus is not available.

The late bus runs Monday - Thursday. The late bus does not run on half days.

After School Programs:

HEY! Help runs the following times: Mon-Fri Mornings 7:15-7:45 in the LibraryMon–Thu Afternoons 2:45-4:15, Mon in A-11, Tue-Thu in the LibraryAfter School Programs:-Jr. Iron Chef on Tuesdays-Dungeons & Dragons on Tuesdays -L&G TV and Story Telling on Thursdays-Mural Club on Thursdays -Computer Coding and Games Creation on Thursdays-Weight Training on Thursdays-Create in Three Dimensions on Tuesdays and Thursdays -NEW>>> Ceramics on Wednesdays see Ms. Wilson for details -NEW>>> SAT prepAll after school programs at L&G are offered free of charge.See Dale Stevens in room C5 (in the activity room) or dstevens@lelandandgray.org for more information

COMMUNITY:

Jessica's Closet:

Attention Girls! While you are looking through your closets please look for the purple bags for Jessica's Closet. Also, we have tons of dresses that have not been returned. Please respect others right to enjoy feeling like princesses and return them as soon as possible. Thank you!

Yoga:

West River Valley Thrives:

Check out West River Valley Thrives' Campaign for Kids Newsletter

Rabbit Run Half Marathon and 5K:

An amazing event to support an even more amazing local preschool, Timson Hill Preschool.This scenic route will take runners over gently rolling hills along the West River, across a historic iron bridge, and through quiet picturesque roads in Brookline. Proceeds from the event will benefit Timson Hill Preschool, a family cooperative, non-profit licensed preschool in Williamsville, VT.For more details on the event, including pictures from the route and course map, visit the host page: https://www.facebook.com/RabbitRunHalfMarathon/?fref=tsRegistration is now open and you can register for event through the link below:https://g2racereg.webconnex.com/rabbitrun2016Half marathon registration fee - $60 until February 9th5K registration fee - $30 until February 9th

Leland & Gray Community can contact Johanna Liskowsky-Doak with any questions: jliskowsky-doak@lelandandgray.org

The West Townshend Country Store:

On Saturday, April 2, and Sunday, April 3, the Thrift Shop at the West Townshend Country Store will be holding a special end-of-winter sale. Customers can fill up bags with items of their choice for $5.00 per bag. Items include clothing and shoes for men, women and children as well as household items. Hours are from 10:00am-5:00pm. All proceeds from Thrift Shop sales benefit the non-profit West River Community Project. The Thrift Shop is located on the second floor of the West Townshend Country Store at the intersection of Route 30 and Windham Hill Road in West Townshend, VT.

The West River Community Project’s mission is dedicated to preserving and promoting the West River heritage in order to sustain a healthy future full of music, the arts and local agriculture. Its aim is to provide the community with local products, space for social activities and a collective sense of belonging. We promote cooperation amongst neighbors, involvement in local development, and awareness of influential issues, such as environmental conservation and public health. Through participation and contribution, we seek to improve lives and strengthen our community as a whole.For information about events at The West Townshend Country Store, visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/westtownshendcountrystore/ for more details, directions, or contact information.

Talent Show:

Spring will be welcomed in Williamsville this year with the annual of the Williamsville/Newfane Talent Show on Saturday, April 2 at 7PM in the Williamsville Hall. A decades-old tradition, the show will feature a range of talented area performers, young and older. Many delightful area performers have already signed up, but there is certainly room for more. Want to sing? Act? Dance? Juggle? Tame lions? Read poetry? Fiction? Memoir? See Ms. L. in B4 or write alandenberger@lelandandgray.org.Admission is by suggested donation of $5/$15 per family and refreshments will be available, also by donation. Proceeds will benefit both the Leland and Gray Players and the Williamsville Hall. The Williamsville Hall is on Dover Road in Williamsville.

Bus Drivers Needed:

West River Transportation LLC is hiring School bus drivers for home to school, field and sports trips. A CDL class B license with passenger and school bus endorsement is a must. Air brake endorsement a plus. Pay depending on experience. Call 802­-365-­9240 or email westriver22@yahoo.com

ATHLETICS:

Middle School Baseball and Softball:

Middle School Baseball and Softball will begin on April 4th. Practices will run from 2:45-4:15

New Co-Curricular Calendar:

Tired of Digital Sports/League Minder? We were too! So we've transferred all of the co-curricular events to a Google Calendar which can be found on the left hand menu bar of the L&G homepage or here: http://lelandandgray.org/index.php/co-curricular-calendar Many thanks to the IT department for their assistance with this process! The information will still be kept up to date on Digital Sports.

Friday, March 18, 2016

If you are not receiving Friday Notes by email and would like to or if you would like to be removed from the Friday Notes email list, please email fridaynotes@lelandandgray.orgPlease also add fridaynotes@lelandandgray.org to your contact list so the mailing doesn't end up in your spam folder. Thank you.

SCHOOL INFO:

Spirit Week:

The conclusion of Spirit Week 2016 "Oscar Award Winning Films" is happening TONIGHT Friday, March 18th with an all-school (7th-12th grade) dance, themed, "A Night At the Oscars," from 7:00pm - 10:00pm. Admission is $5.00. Concessions will be available for purchase from the senior class. Students are encouraged to come dressed for the Oscars. Those who do will receive 5 bonus points for their class toward their spirit week tally!

Congratulations to all the students on their great work!

Students in the Spotlight:

Trying it all: L&G snowboarders shine on stage and on the slopesWhen Owen McDonald competed in the state snowboard individual slopestyle event March 3, he had a couple other things on his mind: First, he had to be back to Leland and Gray (L&G) by 5 PM for company notes before a 7PM opening of the L&G Players' production of Macbeth. Then he had to face the fact that this was his first time working with the Players: He'd broken through his comfort zone to play the roles of Lennox, Old Man and Seyton in the well-known Shakespearean tragedy.Why now, in his senior year, did McDonald decide to give the Players a try? He was convinced, he said, by Emma Urbaska –relatively new to L&G's theatre program –and by Players' newcomer and fellow senior athlete, Jordan Gouger, to join the Macbeth cast. “They told me that I would regret not doing it, if I didn't give it a go. So, that is how I found myself walking into play rehearsal one day.”Of that day when he scored on his snowboard and then under the lights, McDonald says: “As an athlete, mental power is very important and my mental power was truly tested that day. Switching gears from snowboarding to performing in front of an audience in costume and make up was difficult, but I got through it. In the end, I can safely say, that was a successful day not just for me but for everyone around me.” According to McDonald's mother, Beth, the winning rider pressed her to hurry back to the Townshend high school from Okemo in Ludlow where the day-long competition was held. Players' Assistant Director Kayla Williams, L&G '14, adds that no one would have known the stress of that afternoon as McDonald slid in at 5:03 and sat to get the feedback he'd use in that night's opening. It wasn't until just before opening that director Annie Landenberger learned from L&G's Athletics and Activities Director Marty Testo of McDonald's win.But that's not all: Teammate and fellow senior Cody Cutler had also jumped at the chance to perform for the first time taking roles of Menteith and first murderer in Macbeth. He, too, sat calmly for notes, no doubt busting with pride: For not only had McDonald taken the individual gold; the whole L&G team took first in slopestyle statewide.L&G snowboarding coach, John Salzman, says: "This year was tough in terms of natural precipitation, but the team was strong with natural talent. We didn't have more than two practices on snow before our first competition, although that didn't stop us from taking first place. It was an honor to work with these gifted riders."Testo adds, “What I found most impressive about this team was their ability to overcome the mild winter and inaccessibility of practice facilities. They never used this as an excuse and just overcame every obstacle that came their way. A sign of a true champion!”McDonald's younger brother, Patrick, is his snowboarding teammate and was also a varsity soccer teammate in the fall. Patrick will leave March 21 for China, having been selected to participate in L&G's 2016 Journey East performing arts group."I couldn't be more proud of L&G," Beth McDonald adds. “From our first visit to see Coach Barton and his varsity boys' soccer team when my kids were still at Windham Elementary School, I was impressed with the closeness of the L&G students, parents and community members. It was then we started attending concerts and plays-- amazing entertainment right down the hill. We knew that our kids would thrive in this close-knit school and feel comfortable trying all L&G has to offer. We are extremely grateful for the diverse opportunities there.”

Student Art Month Art Show:

Leland & Gray did fantastic in this year's Student Art Month Art Show with the following awards:

Best in Show Drawing - Erelyn GriffinBest in Show Painting - Skyler NuppBest in Show Ceramics - Maggie AdamsBest in Show Book Arts - Maggie AdamsHonorable Mention Digital Arts - Dani DezendorfThe show opens March 4th and will be up until the end of the month. You can see the 2D work at the River Garden and the 3D work at Vermont Artisan Designs Gallery 2.

Also, Trevor Wood and Gary Gay made this video and have entered it in TeenDrive 365 Video Challenge.

Finalist's videos get professionally produced. The guys would go to NY to work with the professionals filming, cutting and editing the 1 minute Public Service Announcement!

Kids' Night at the Movies:

On Friday, March 25th from 6-9pm, grades k-6 are invited to watch movies at Leland & Gray. There will be three movies to choose from: Shrek, Inside Out or the Little Mermaid. There will be free popcorn. Bring your pillows and blankets. Parents can stay or drop off at the main entrance to L&G.

Suicide Prevention Presentation:

The Springfield School District, the Center for Health and Wellbeing and Community partners are supporting the following event at the Springfield High School on March 31, 2016: Suicide Prevention Awareness: Promoting Positive Mental Health and Wellness. Dinner and childcare are provided and great door prizes are offered (a new Bike, gift cards). Please RSVP to Nicole Buser (nbuser@ssdvt.org) for accurate dinner count and Childcare needs ASAP.

From the Music Department:

On April 8th and 9th the High School Chorus will be performing Carl Orff's "Carmina Burana" with other local choral groups and the Windham Orchestra.

Vermont All State Music Festival:

Congratulations to Susie Francy, Emma Urbaska and Gabrel Vanni-Phillips who auditioned for and were accepted into the Vermont All state Music Festival. The concert will be on May 7th in Swanton, VT.

Hide and Seek:

Leland and Gray Middle and High School, in collaboration with West River Valley Thrives, invites local parents and caregivers to attend High & Seek, an interactive presentation to raise awareness of signs of teenage substance abuse, self-harm and sexual activity. Melissa Fernald, a master-licensed alcohol and drug counselor, will set up a mock bedroom for participants to find up to 70 signs of risky behavior. She will also present on this year’s Youth Risk Behavior Survey findings.When: Friday, March 18th, 2016 at 6-8pm Where: Leland and Gray Library

Penny Wars:

The senior class needs your help and your change. They will be putting on Penny Wars March 1st-31st. The way it works is you donate pennies for a grade, 7-12, and each penny will earn them a point. Then you can give any of your silver change to a different class and their points will be deducted based off of the silver value. Drop off any and all change to help out. You can give change to a senior, or deliver it to Jaclyn as she will be keeping track of all points. Thank you for your support of the senior class.

Senior Class Slideshow:

The Senior Class Slideshow committee is in need of 7 photos from each graduating senior. They should be from the time they were a baby to now. Also if you have any group pictures from class trips or other major events. This slideshow will be played at Class Night. We would like the pictures to be sent to Ashley Hescock at 16ashleyh@lelandandgray.orgIf you do not have them digitally, you can send them in with your senior to get them scanned here at school.

8th Grade Parents:

8th grade homework assignments build on what has happened that day in class. The lesson is taught and assignments are typically begun in class. They need to be completed before the next class. Without completed homework, students will not be as successful in the next day. This design is intended to help 8th graders become more independent learners, a skill needed for high school. Please check Power School daily to see what the day's homework assignment is, and ask to see your child's homework when it is completed.

Juniors & Seniors & Their Parents/Guardians:

Every week Sarah sends out an E-newsletter containing all things college and career. Many of you are on the list to receive it, but many are not! There is so much information pertaining to life after high school, this is the most effective way to communicate it to you. If you do NOT get this e-letter, please email Sarah and request to be added to the list.sgrasso@lelandandgray.org

Leland & Gray Literary Magazine:

If you like writing---whether it be poems, creative non-fiction, fiction and its many categories, or essays---and would like to share it, Lindsey Vachon and Chloe Fawcett with the guidance of Ms. Landenberger are now accepting submissions for Leland and Gray's Literary Magazine. If your talent is drawing, painting, or photography, we're welcomiong your work, too. Finally, if you're interested in layout, design, promotion, editing--we need staff in those areas in order to showcase all types of parchment art. You can find Ms. L in B4 during C block, Lindsey in the library most days during B and C block, and Chloe in passing. If email works better for you, feel free to submit work that way, and if you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask. Thanks! Emails: alandenberger@lelandandgray.org, 17chloef@lelandandgray.org, 16lindseyv@lelandandgray.org

Hats Off:

The L&G Players' annual cavalcade of comedy song and dance will be Friday, June 10 and Saturday, June 11. All interested in joining the fun should come to B4 at one --or more--of the following times scheduled specifically to accommodate Journey East students: HS Lunch, Friday, March 11; HS Lunch, Friday, March 18.

An important Players' meeting will be Wednesday, March 23, 2:35 to 4:30. Come to talk about the NYC trip, Hats Off and next year's line-up of shows. All are welcome.Ms. L. will let Macbeth Players know as soon as photos and the video are ready!

Save the Date:

This years prom will take place on Saturday, May 21st.

AFTER SCHOOL INFO:

LEAF Program:

L.E.A.F. (L&G Environmental Action Force and Outdoor Club)Help us plan this year’s full week celebration of Earth Day 2016 with activities and special guests starting April 11th and ending with an all school Assembly on April 15th. Join us any time.What we do as a club​:

hike, snowshoe, and learn wilderness skills

L&G School Community Garden

make and teach upcycled crafts

attend Youth Environmental Summits

educate ourselves and others on the outdoors, environmental issues and model sustainable practices

help ​us bring back our composting program!

When? ​Every Friday​HS lunch C4 and on occasion after school for a hike!

Late Bus:

Leland and Gray's after-school late bus is running and will continue running until March 31st.

Please make alternative transportation arrangements for the dates the bus is not available.

The late bus runs Monday - Thursday. The late bus does not run on half days.

After School Programs:

HEY! Help runs the following times: Mon-Fri Mornings 7:15-7:45 in the LibraryMon–Thu Afternoons 2:45-4:15, Mon in A-11, Tue-Thu in the LibraryAfter School Programs:-Jr. Iron Chef on Tuesdays-Dungeons & Dragons on Tuesdays -L&G TV and Story Telling on Thursdays-Mural Club on Thursdays -Computer Coding and Games Creation on Thursdays-Weight Training on Thursdays-Create in Three Dimensions on Tuesdays and Thursdays -NEW>>> Ceramics on Wednesdays see Ms. Wilson for details -NEW>>> SAT prepAll after school programs at L&G are offered free of charge.See Dale Stevens in room C5 (in the activity room) or dstevens@lelandandgray.org for more information

COMMUNITY:

Jessica's Closet:

Attention Girls! While you are looking through your closets please look for the purple bags for Jessica's Closet.

Also, we have tons of dresses that have not been returned. Please respect others right to enjoy feeling like princesses and return them as soon as possible. Thank you!

Yoga:

West River Valley Thrives:

This winter, West River Valley Thrives, a local coalition dedicated to “promoting healthy lifestyle choices with an emphasis on the prevention of alcohol, tobacco and other drug use by youth people”, will be hosting a new program for local parents. This workshop, calledActive Parenting of Teens, is an evidence-based program for parents of children in fifth grade and up where parents will discuss issues unique to adolescence and the skills needed to parent their “tweens” and teens most effectively.

The workshop will include information on parenting styles, problem solving and communication, responsibility and discipline, building courage and self-esteem, drugs and violence, as well as development and sexuality.

Active Parenting of Teens will be held over the course of four Saturdays from 9am-12pm at the United Church of Christ in Townshend (46 Common Rd); pastries and coffee will be provided. Free childcare will be made available with advanced notice. Also, all participants will receive a gas gift card worth $20 as a thank you for coming out on a Saturday morning to engage with other local parents on the topic of parenting. Interested parents should contact Kate Venne, Project Coordinator for West River Valley Thrives, at wrvthrives@gmail.com or 802.365.4700 to register. Check out our new website, wrvthrives.com, for more information about other upcoming West River Valley Thrives opportunities!

Rabbit Run Half Marathon and 5K:

An amazing event to support an even more amazing local preschool, Timson Hill Preschool.This scenic route will take runners over gently rolling hills along the West River, across a historic iron bridge, and through quiet picturesque roads in Brookline. Proceeds from the event will benefit Timson Hill Preschool, a family cooperative, non-profit licensed preschool in Williamsville, VT.For more details on the event, including pictures from the route and course map, visit the host page: https://www.facebook.com/RabbitRunHalfMarathon/?fref=tsRegistration is now open and you can register for event through the link below:https://g2racereg.webconnex.com/rabbitrun2016Half marathon registration fee - $60 until February 9th5K registration fee - $30 until February 9th

Leland & Gray Community can contact Johanna Liskowsky-Doak with any questions: jliskowsky-doak@lelandandgray.org

The West Townshend Country Store:

Talent Show:

Spring will be welcomed in Williamsville this year with the annual of the Williamsville/Newfane Talent Show on Saturday, April 2 at 7PM in the Williamsville Hall. A decades-old tradition, the show will feature a range of talented area performers, young and older. Many delightful area performers have already signed up, but there is certainly room for more. Want to sing? Act? Dance? Juggle? Tame lions? Read poetry? Fiction? Memoir? See Ms. L. in B4 or write alandenberger@lelandandgray.org.Admission is by suggested donation of $5/$15 per family and refreshments will be available, also by donation. Proceeds will benefit both the Leland and Gray Players and the Williamsville Hall. The Williamsville Hall is on Dover Road in Williamsville.

Bus Drivers Needed:

West River Transportation LLC is hiring School bus drivers for home to school, field and sports trips. A CDL class B license with passenger and school bus endorsement is a must. Air brake endorsement a plus. Pay depending on experience. Call 802­-365-­9240 or email westriver22@yahoo.com

ATHLETICS:

Softball Information:

HS Girls Softball:Our spring season will start on Sunday, March 20th at 3:00pm!!

Middle School Baseball and Softball:

Middle School Baseball and Softball will begin on April 4th. Practices will run from 2:45-4:15

New Co-Curricular Calendar:

Tired of Digital Sports/League Minder? We were too! So we've transferred all of the co-curricular events to a Google Calendar which can be found on the left hand menu bar of the L&G homepage or here: http://lelandandgray.org/index.php/co-curricular-calendar Many thanks to the IT department for their assistance with this process! The information will still be kept up to date on Digital Sports.

Friday, March 11, 2016

If you are not receiving Friday Notes by email and would like to or if you would like to be removed from the Friday Notes email list, please email fridaynotes@lelandandgray.orgPlease also add fridaynotes@lelandandgray.org to your contact list so the mailing doesn't end up in your spam folder. Thank you.

SCHOOL INFO:

Spirit Week:

The final event will happen on Friday, March 18th with an all-school (7th-12th grade) dance, themed, "A Night At the Oscars", from 7:00pm - 10:00pm. Admission is $5.00. Concessions will be available for purchase from the senior class. Students are encouraged to come dressed for the Oscars. Those who do will receive 5 bonus points for their class toward their spirit week tally!

Here's the weeks schedule:

3/14/16, Mon: 60 Minute Morning Assembly to Kick Off the Week

Movie Trivia: How well do you know these movies?

20 minute assembly followed with 40 minutes of Class Meeting to work on their floats/skits/performance

Snowboarding Results:

State title and championships have been won! Congratulations to Owen McDonald for capturing the Individual Slope Style Competition State Championship and to the Leland & Gray Snowboarding Team, which consisted of Owen McDonald, Patrick McDonald, Max Cramp, Casper Rowe and Cody Cutler, for capturing the Team Slope Style Competition State Championship! Congratulations to the athletes and their coaches!

Student Art Month Art Show:

Leland & Gray did fantastic in this year's Student Art Month Art Show with the following awards:

Best in Show Drawing - Erelyn GriffinBest in Show Painting - Skyler NuppBest in Show Ceramics - Maggie AdamsBest in Show Book Arts - Maggie AdamsHonorable Mention Digital Arts - Dani DezendorfThe show opens March 4th and will be up until the end of the month. You can see the 2D work at the River Garden and the 3D work at Vermont Artisan Designs Gallery 2.

Also, Trevor Wood and Gary Gay made this video and have entered it in TeenDrive 365 Video Challenge.

Finalist's videos get professionally produced. The guys would go to NY to work with the professionals filming, cutting and editing the 1 minute Public Service Announcement!

Parent Conferences:

L&G Parents: It's time to think about parent conferences which are March 24, 2016. Please e-mail Patty to set up your times. Middle School parents can schedule theirs from 12:30-3:00 for a ten minute team teachers (all of them at once) or else individual ones during the same time as the High School conferences, which are 3:30-7:30! Patty's e-mail is: pbrissette@lelandandgray.org!

Suicide Prevention Presentation:

The Springfield School District, the Center for Health and Wellbeing and Community partners are supporting the following event at the Springfield High School on March 31, 2016: Suicide Prevention Awareness: Promoting Positive Mental Health and Wellness. Dinner and childcare are provided and great door prizes are offered (a new Bike, gift cards). Please RSVP to Nicole Buser (nbuser@ssdvt.org) for accurate dinner count and Childcare needs ASAP.

Refuse to Use:

The fifth and final Refuse to Use event for students will be held this Thursday March 17th, right after school (location TBD). Students will watch a video in which Macklemore talks about how his battle with drug abuse affected his creativity and his relationships, and how he got on the road to recovery. The video will be followed by a group discussion. All Refuse to Use students are required to attend this event. Those who have not attended 5 events will have passes turned off.

Winter Activities:

Wednesday, March 9th was our final day of Winter Activities in 2016. We ended the season with a fantastic day. Thanks to everyone who helped make Winter Activities happen.

From the Music Department:

The Friends of Music are sponsoring a Music Night on Friday, March 11th at 7PM in the Dutton Gym.The L&G Middle School Chorus and the Rebel Clefs will be traveling to the Kurn Hattin School on Wednesday, March 16 to participate in the Kurn Hattin Middle School Choral Invitational.

On April 8th and 9th the High School Chorus will be performing Carl Orff's "Carmina Burana" with other local choral groups and the Windham Orchestra.

Music Night:

On March 11th at 7:00pm in the Dutton Gymnasium the Leland and Gray Music Department will be hosting one of its Music Nights - likely the last of the year!

Music Nights are evenings of musical performances by students and faculty/staff in groups and as solo acts that you won't see in any other concert. They usually last 1 1/2 to 2 hours, and have a kind of coffee house atmosphere. At this point, there are some acts that have been brewing for a few months now, so this is bound to be a great show!If you'd like to sign up to play or sing, let Mr. Goodemote or Mr. Kelley know, and if you'd like to order pizza to be enjoyed at the concert, there will be forms available next week. All proceeds go to the Leland and Gray Friends of Music so they can assist the music department as well as students paying for lessons, camps, and instruments.

We'll see you there!

Vermont All State Music Festival:

Congratulations to Susie Francy, Emma Urbaska and Gabrel Vanni-Phillips who auditioned for and were accepted into the Vermont All state Music Festival. The concert will be on May 7th in Swanton, VT.

Hide and Seek:

Leland and Gray Middle and High School, in collaboration with West River Valley Thrives, invites local parents and caregivers to attend High & Seek, an interactive presentation to raise awareness of signs of teenage substance abuse, self-harm and sexual activity. Melissa Fernald, a master-licensed alcohol and drug counselor, will set up a mock bedroom for participants to find up to 70 signs of risky behavior. She will also present on this year’s Youth Risk Behavior Survey findings.When: Friday, March 18th, 2016 at 6-8pmWhere: Leland and Gray Library

Penny Wars:

The senior class needs your help and your change. They will be putting on Penny Wars March 1st-31st. The way it works is you donate pennies for a grade, 7-12, and each penny will earn them a point. Then you can give any of your silver change to a different class and their points will be deducted based off of the silver value. Drop off any and all change to help out. You can give change to a senior, or deliver it to Jaclyn as she will be keeping track of all points. Thank you for your support of the senior class.

Senior Class Slideshow:

The Senior Class Slideshow committee is in need of 7 photos from each graduating senior. They should be from the time they were a baby to now. Also if you have any group pictures from class trips or other major events. This slideshow will be played at Class Night. We would like the pictures to be sent to Ashley Hescock at 16ashleyh@lelandandgray.orgIf you do not have them digitally, you can send them in with your senior to get them scanned here at school.

8th Grade Parents:

8th grade homework assignments build on what has happened that day in class. The lesson is taught and assignments are typically begun in class. They need to be completed before the next class. Without completed homework, students will not be as successful in the next day. This design is intended to help 8th graders become more independent learners, a skill needed for high school. Please check Power School daily to see what the day's homework assignment is, and ask to see your child's homework when it is completed.

Juniors & Seniors & Their Parents/Guardians:

Every week Sarah sends out an E-newsletter containing all things college and career. Many of you are on the list to receive it, but many are not! There is so much information pertaining to life after high school, this is the most effective way to communicate it to you. If you do NOT get this e-letter, please email Sarah and request to be added to the list.sgrasso@lelandandgray.org

Leland & Gray Literary Magazine:

If you like writing---whether it be poems, creative non-fiction, fiction and its many categories, or essays---and would like to share it, Lindsey Vachon and Chloe Fawcett with the guidance of Ms. Landenberger are now accepting submissions for Leland and Gray's Literary Magazine. If your talent is drawing, painting, or photography, we're welcomiong your work, too. Finally, if you're interested in layout, design, promotion, editing--we need staff in those areas in order to showcase all types of parchment art. You can find Ms. L in B4 during C block, Lindsey in the library most days during B and C block, and Chloe in passing. If email works better for you, feel free to submit work that way, and if you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask. Thanks! Emails: alandenberger@lelandandgray.org, 17chloef@lelandandgray.org, 16lindseyv@lelandandgray.org

Hats Off:

The L&G Players' annual cavalcade of comedy song and dance will be Friday, June 10 and Saturday, June 11. All interested in joining the fun should come to B4 at one --or more--of the following times scheduled specifically to accommodate Journey East students: HS Lunch, Friday, March 11; HS Lunch, Friday, March 18.An important Players' meeting will be Wednesday, March 23, 2:35 to 4:30. Come to talk about the NYC trip, Hats Off and next year's line-up of shows. All are welcome.Ms. L. will let Macbeth Players know as soon as photos and the video are ready!

Save the Date:

This years prom will take place on Saturday, May 21st.

AFTER SCHOOL INFO:

LEAF Program:

L.E.A.F. (L&G Environmental Action Force and Outdoor Club)Help us plan this year’s full week celebration of Earth Day 2016 with activities and special guests starting April 11th and ending with an all school Assembly on April 15th. Join us any time.What we do as a club​:

hike, snowshoe, and learn wilderness skills

L&G School Community Garden

make and teach upcycled crafts

attend Youth Environmental Summits

educate ourselves and others on the outdoors, environmental issues and model sustainable practices

help ​us bring back our composting program!

When? ​Every Friday​HS lunch C4 and on occasion after school for a hike!

Late Bus:

Leland and Gray's after-school late bus is running and will continue running until March 31st.

Please make alternative transportation arrangements for the dates the bus is not available.

The late bus runs Monday - Thursday. The late bus does not run on half days.

After School Programs:

HEY! Help runs the following times: Mon-Fri Mornings 7:15-7:45 in the LibraryMon–Thu Afternoons 2:45-4:15, Mon in A-11, Tue-Thu in the LibraryAfter School Programs:-Jr. Iron Chef on Tuesdays-Dungeons & Dragons on Tuesdays -L&G TV and Story Telling on Thursdays-Mural Club on Thursdays -Computer Coding and Games Creation on Thursdays-Weight Training on Thursdays-Create in Three Dimensions on Tuesdays and Thursdays -NEW>>> Ceramics on Wednesdays see Ms. Wilson for details -NEW>>> SAT prepAll after school programs at L&G are offered free of charge.See Dale Stevens in room C5 (in the activity room) or dstevens@lelandandgray.org for more information

COMMUNITY:

Yoga:

West River Valley Thrives:

This winter, West River Valley Thrives, a local coalition dedicated to “promoting healthy lifestyle choices with an emphasis on the prevention of alcohol, tobacco and other drug use by youth people”, will be hosting a new program for local parents. This workshop, calledActive Parenting of Teens, is an evidence-based program for parents of children in fifth grade and up where parents will discuss issues unique to adolescence and the skills needed to parent their “tweens” and teens most effectively.

The workshop will include information on parenting styles, problem solving and communication, responsibility and discipline, building courage and self-esteem, drugs and violence, as well as development and sexuality.

Active Parenting of Teens will be held over the course of four Saturdays from 9am-12pm at the United Church of Christ in Townshend (46 Common Rd); pastries and coffee will be provided. Free childcare will be made available with advanced notice. Also, all participants will receive a gas gift card worth $20 as a thank you for coming out on a Saturday morning to engage with other local parents on the topic of parenting. Interested parents should contact Kate Venne, Project Coordinator for West River Valley Thrives, at wrvthrives@gmail.com or 802.365.4700 to register. Check out our new website, wrvthrives.com, for more information about other upcoming West River Valley Thrives opportunities!

Rabbit Run Half Marathon and 5K:

An amazing event to support an even more amazing local preschool, Timson Hill Preschool.This scenic route will take runners over gently rolling hills along the West River, across a historic iron bridge, and through quiet picturesque roads in Brookline. Proceeds from the event will benefit Timson Hill Preschool, a family cooperative, non-profit licensed preschool in Williamsville, VT.For more details on the event, including pictures from the route and course map, visit the host page: https://www.facebook.com/RabbitRunHalfMarathon/?fref=tsRegistration is now open and you can register for event through the link below:https://g2racereg.webconnex.com/rabbitrun2016Half marathon registration fee - $60 until February 9th5K registration fee - $30 until February 9th

Leland & Gray Community can contact Johanna Liskowsky-Doak with any questions: jliskowsky-doak@lelandandgray.org

Talent Show:

Spring will be welcomed in Williamsville this year with the annual of the Williamsville/Newfane Talent Show on Saturday, April 2 at 7PM in the Williamsville Hall. A decades-old tradition, the show will feature a range of talented area performers, young and older. Many delightful area performers have already signed up, but there is certainly room for more. Want to sing? Act? Dance? Juggle? Tame lions? Read poetry? Fiction? Memoir? See Ms. L. in B4 or write alandenberger@lelandandgray.org.Admission is by suggested donation of $5/$15 per family and refreshments will be available, also by donation. Proceeds will benefit both the Leland and Gray Players and the Williamsville Hall. The Williamsville Hall is on Dover Road in Williamsville.

Bus Drivers Needed:

West River Transportation LLC is hiring School bus drivers for home to school, field and sports trips. A CDL class B license with passenger and school bus endorsement is a must. Air brake endorsement a plus. Pay depending on experience. Call 802­-365-­9240 or email westriver22@yahoo.com

ATHLETICS:

Softball Information:

There are four Open Gym dates set up for you to come and get ready for the season. Come when you can! Bring a glove and sneakers, and your favorite bat if you'd like! The dates and times are as follows:March 16th 2:45 - 4:15pmMarch 17th 7-9pm.HS Girls Softball:Our spring season will start on Sunday, March 20th at 3:00pm!! There will be an informational meeting on Tuesday, March 8th during HS lunch for all 9th-12th graders playing softball this spring. This meeting will be in the weight room and will start at 1:00pm.

Middle School Baseball and Softball:

Middle School Baseball and Softball will begin on April 4th. Practices will run from 2:45-4:15

New Co-Curricular Calendar:

Tired of Digital Sports/League Minder? We were too! So we've transferred all of the co-curricular events to a Google Calendar which can be found on the left hand menu bar of the L&G homepage or here: http://lelandandgray.org/index.php/co-curricular-calendar Many thanks to the IT department for their assistance with this process! The information will still be kept up to date on Digital Sports.

Hood Scholarship:

Hood Milk Sportsmanship Scholarship applications are due by March 11, 2016. More information can be found here.